To join or not to join

Lee-Ann Alder , association manager at EXSA, answers the question:

EXSA was founded in 1980 and has been the cornerstone of the industry ever since. An industry platform that is passionate and committed to helping Industry members connect, engage, learn and grow, EXSA promotes the unique marketing benefits offered by exhibitions and events, and raises the profile of its members.

EXSA membership provides access to and support of the globally recognised industry association for goods and services suppliers, exhibition and event service providers, venues, role players and stakeholders.

In signing up for membership, you will have the advantage of the strength of EXSA’s domain. With a variety of membership packages available, your selection will be based on your requirements, your objectives and where you are positioned in the industry.

World-class quality services are expected from EXSA members that will be appointed as suppliers, venues and service providers within the EXSA network. Therefore, EXSA has a vetting and monitoring process.

Supporting its members no matter their challenges, EXSA is dedicated to making sure that there is visible industry progress.

Advocators of transformation and expansion of thinking, EXSA’s association strategy is one of relationship-building, enhancement and engagement, driven by its vision, mission and goals.

In addition to serving its members, EXSA is now in a position of strength to reach further in connecting with and serving a larger sphere of industry participants and influencers.

Benefits Of Exsa Membership

• Access to the EXSA Member primary WhatsApp group: rapid notification, mobilisation, gathering and sharing of real-time pertinent industry news, updates, networking, referrals and assistance.

• Members-only and discounts to EXSA events: think tanks, masterclasses, workshops, webinars and online events with access to local and international experts and speakers. SARS VAT ruling: services supplied by EXSA members for and on behalf of international clients may be zero-rated for VAT insofar as the requirements as stipulated in the SARS VAT ruling are met.

• Member exposure and promotion: highlights and profiling of member activities, accolades and achievements.

• EXSA-llence Awards: prestigious recognition and rewarding of leadership, innovation, excellence in design and implementation at the Annual Awards.

• Opportunity and gain: - to contribute significantly to the exhibitions, events, design and creative industry

- to expand your network with likeminded professionals

- to gain knowledge, advice, professional experience and skills

- to get exposed to professional development opportunities

- to raise your business status and credibility in the professional work environment and the industry at large

- to enhance and expand on your brand development, authenticity and reputation

- to access products, services, information and discounts

- to network, gain a sense of community and common purpose, as well as volunteer your time, skills, valuable advice, experience and expertise to enhance the industry community – including EXSA Connect and think-tank sessions.

• Exposure to and networking with industry associations: where EXSA enjoys reciprocity agreements, support, advice, shared best practice, skills and information.

• Ethics committee: resolution of relevant dispute matters.

• NextGen │ Opportunities:

- in the spirit of generational diversity and longevity for the industry, EXSA attracts youth through promoting our industry, empowering, as well as instilling leadership and mentorship

- youth bring fresh, new perspectives and innovation to the mix, to enhance our association and industry community.

For more information or queries, please contact the EXSA office on +27 (0)11 620 3089 or info@exsa.co.za.